This introduction of a common and illiterate ostler into the party on equal terms with himself did not add to his satisfaction, and a remark from Rawlins seemed to complete his embarrassment.
"Ye had a mighty narrer escape down there just now," said that gentleman confidentially, as Hale buckled his saddle girths.
"I thought, as we were not supposed to defend ourselves, there was no danger," said Hale scornfully.
"Oh, I don't mean them road agents.

But HIM." "Who ?" "Kernel Clinch.

You jist ez good as allowed he hadn't any grit." "Whatever I said, I suppose I am responsible for it," answered Hale haughtily.
"That's what gits me," was the imperturbable reply.

"He's the best shot in Southern California, and hez let daylight through a dozen chaps afore now for half what you said." "Indeed!" "Howsummever," continued Rawlins philosophically, "ez he's concluded to go WITH ye instead of FOR ye, you're likely to hev your ideas on this matter carried out up to the handle.

He'll make short work of it, you bet.